One phrase that remains common in every match of cricket, be it domestic, international, or even IPL, is — catches win matches. On Saturday, DC learned it the hard way, as they gave a lifeline to CSK opener Sanju Samson, who was batting on 55, when dropped by Pathum Nissanka, on the bowling of Axar Patel. The T20 veteran went on to score 115 not out in 56 deliveries, including 15 fours and 4 sixes.
Sanju Samson drop costs DC big
The ball was hit towards long on, and Nissanka just could not complete the catch, in what looked like a regulation chance. Eventually, DC lost the encounter by 23 runs.. and if Sanju had been dismissed when the opportunity came, DC could have won easy. Catches getting dropped is not really a new phenomenon, but the way it is impacting the sides, is something for the franchises and managements to notice.
| Team | Matches | Catches Dropped | Catches Taken |
|---|---|---|---|
| SRH | 4 | 4 | 16 |
| RCB | 3 | 4 | 22 |
| KKR | 4 | 3 | 18 |
| MI | 3 | 3 | 9 |
| CSK | 4 | 6 | 16 |
| RR | 4 | 1 | 25 |
| GT | 3 | 4 | 12 |
| DC | 4 | 4 | 15 |
| LSG | 3 | 1 | 15 |
| PBKS | 3 | 4 | 10 |
This brings us to the points — as to which is the worst and the best catching side of IPL 2026? From the data available for 18 completed matches so far — RCB has taken the most number of catches so far — 22 in all, and have dropped four. RR have been excellent in this department too, where they have pouched 25, and dropped only one catch.
CSK suffering on account of poor catching
That is reflective on the IPL points table as well — where RR are on top, while RCB are on third. PBKS, who are on second, did not drop a single one in their opening encounter, and have since dropped four. Talking about the most drops — CSK have dropped 6 catches. DC, who lost on account of dropping Sanju in their last encounter, had missed two more catches in the match.
When it comes to individuals, it is quite surprising that David Miller has spilled two chances till now, while CSK’s Matt Henry is on two as well. Rest all the other fielders have dropped only one each. Out of the players who have pocketed the most catches are — Dhruv Jurel (RR – 6). The likes of Tilak Varma, Devdutt Padikkal, Shimron Hetmyer have taken five, followed by Phil Salt and Rinku taking four each.
It is still early days for all the teams in IPL 2026, and if then can arrest this trend, their clean catching would be detrimental in taking them to the playoffs at least. Of course, batting and bowling will play primary roles, but no team can succeed without sorting this department too,
(Data includes half chances as well)
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